Category Archives: News

Download your copy of the 2024 Anzac Day Services across the Cootamundra electorate here:

https://stephcooke.com.au/content/uploads/2024-Anzac-Day-Services-Flyer.pdf

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has written to the chair of the parliamentary inquiry investigating regional crime, requesting committee members hold a public hearing in the area.

Ms Cooke said the inquiry is examining various aspects of crime in the regions, including causes, impacts on individuals and communities, and potential solutions. It aims to outline targeted strategies to improve safety and security for residents.

“The inquiry is currently seeking input from residents across regional New South Wales to help identify issues related to crime in rural and regional areas,” Ms Cooke said.

“This is a really important opportunity for our community to share their experiences and perspectives on crime in our region. The input from members of our communities can play a vital role in shaping recommendations that will address regional crime and enhance community safety.

“To that end, local residents have the opportunity to contribute through written submissions to the inquiry committee; submissions are being taken until the end of May, and that process is a really important way for us to ensure our voices are heard.

“I have written to the committee chair requesting that panel members conduct a public hearing in our region, to ensure they see firsthand the circumstances we’re facing, including the need for a new police station in Young, the need for 24/7 policing in Cowra, along with the need for adequate police infrastructure and resourcing in other areas, such as in places like Narrandera,” she said.

Ms Cooke said precious time has already been lost after the government initially rejected the idea of an inquiry.

“Thanks to the tireless efforts of the Country Mayors Association – led by Chairman Mayor Jamie Chaffey – along with the CWA, NSW Farmers’, the Police Association, and Shadow Police Minister Paul Toole, we’ve finally been able to get this inquiry up and running,” Ms Cooke said.

“It’s certainly a case of better late than never, and I encourage everyone in our region to take part in this process. Your submissions can help create meaningful change and ensure our community’s unique needs are addressed in future policies and legislation,” she said.

Submissions: https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/committees/inquiries/pages/inquiries.aspx Or contact the electorate office on (02) 6382 2399 for further information.

*Photon: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke discussing the regional crime inquiry with Acting Sergeant Aimee Bannister at the Wallendbeen Police Station.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke has launched NSW Youth Week 2024 in the electorate with the opening of the new Bland Shire Youth Centre in West Wyalong.

Ms Cooke joined with Bland Shire Council Deputy Mayor Tony Lord to officially open the centre, which she said is an exciting way to start Youth Week across the region.

“Youth Week is officially here for 2024 and I couldn’t be more thrilled to kickstart this year’s activities with the official opening of the brand-new Youth Centre here in West Wyalong,” Ms Cooke said.

The first of its kind in the town, Ms Cooke said the Youth Centre provides a safe place for young people to gather after school and on weekends, to study and spend time with friends.

“This is an investment in our future; by providing a place for young people to access support programs and activities, we can create an environment for them to flourish, and look towards a future filled with opportunity and promise,” Ms Cooke said.

Ms Cooke explained the Youth Officer at the centre, Macey Cowan, was part of the initial group of young people who first petitioned the council back in 2020, for a space dedicated to local youth.

“Not only is this centre a wonderful asset for the young people of the Bland Shire, it’s also a perfect example of what can be achieved with the passion, dedication, and drive I so often see among the younger generations within our communities,” Ms Cooke said.

“At just 20 years-of-age, Macey has demonstrated that big things are possible when you advocate for change and pursue your passions; in her role as Youth Officer, she is a great example to others of the creativity, enthusiasm, and resourcefulness of our young people,” she said.

The Youth Centre was made possible thanks to contributions from previous Federal and State Coalition Governments, including $152,192 under the NSW Stronger Country Communities Fund.

The Youth Centre includes study spaces, television screens, video game consoles and other IT equipment, as well as an outdoor area. The centre will be open after school on select days, as well as one day on the weekend. For information on NSW Youth Week 2024 activities contact your local council or phone the electorate office on (02) 6382 2399.

Photo: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke joined with members of the Bland Shire community to celebrate the official opening of the new Youth Centre. She was joined by Deputy Mayor Tony Lord, and Youth Officer Macey Cowan, to mark the occasion.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke is calling for nominations for the 2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards, held to honour the quiet achievers in the community.

Ms Cooke said the award – now in its 17^th year – aims to recognise the outstanding contributions of volunteers across New South Wales who selflessly dedicate their time and effort to make a positive impact in their communities.

“Volunteers play a crucial role in building stronger, more connected communities, and their tireless dedication deserves recognition and appreciation,” Ms Cooke said.

“Whether it’s supporting local charities, mentoring youth, or advocating for important causes, volunteers are the backbone of our society; they are the unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make our communities better places to live.

“This award – hosted by The Centre for Volunteering – is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on their invaluable contributions and express our gratitude for all that they do, so I’m thrilled to invite nominations for the 2024 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards,” she said.

Ms Cooke said there are eight categories for the awards, with nominations open until Friday 14 June 2024. Winners will be announced at a ceremony to be held later this year.

“I encourage everyone to take this opportunity to nominate the outstanding volunteers in our communities; let’s celebrate their remarkable contributions and inspire others to join the spirit of volunteerism,” Ms Cooke said.

“So if you know someone who deserves to be celebrated for their community service, make sure you nominate them, and of course spread the word that nominations are open,” she said.

To learn more about the awards, and to submit a nomination, visit: www.volunteering.com.au/awards/

Photo: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke with members of the Ariah Park CWA who volunteered their time during this year’s Australia Day events.

Work has commenced on upgrades to the heritage-listed Cootamundra Fire Station to modernise the building and ensure it is fit for purpose, while preserving its historical value, Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said.

Ms Cooke said the project represented a balance between conserving the town’s heritage while safeguarding the functionality of an essential piece of community infrastructure.

“The fire station was built in 1913 and has served the local community well for more than one hundred years,” Ms Cooke said.

“It’s a beautiful building and is a wonderful reminder of days gone by, and while it is important to preserve our history, it’s equally important that the fire station meets modern standards, and the renovations that are now underway will ensure it is a state-of-the-art facility, with the capabilities to deal with the challenges of today,” she said.

Ms Cooke said the work is due for completion in December this year, emphasising that the station will remain operational throughout the build.

“The $2.5 million upgrades will include a new engine bay for the truck to park in, enabling trucks to drive through the station, eliminating the need to reverse in off the road. There will be a new office, along with new change rooms and amenities, which will ensure brigade members have the facilities they need as they carry out their vital work,” Ms Cooke said.

“Careful attention will be paid to preserving the station’s heritage features, such as its distinctive facade and other architectural elements.

“The work our first-responders do should never be taken for granted, and I am committed to ensuring our frontline emergency services personnel have the very best facilities to enable them to keep communities safer and stronger when future hazards emerge.

“I’m pleased that Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib recognises this, and I look forward to continuing to work with him to secure vital investments in our regionally-based emergency services,” she said.

Photo: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke at the Cootamundra Fire Station with members of the local brigade.

Former Junee Mayor Peter Commens was honoured for his ongoing commitment to the local area when he was presented with a NSW Government Community Service Award by the Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke.

Mr Commens was joined by family and friends at the Junee Showground for the award presentation, where Ms Cooke praised his numerous contributions to the Junee community.

“Peter is well known to the community through his time as mayor, but his work in and around Junee extends far beyond his service on local council,” Ms Cooke said.

“In what is an extraordinary achievement, Peter has been a member of the Junee Show Society since he left school, and has made significant contributions to the organisation for over five decades, including as president of the society on-and-off for a total of 30 years,” she said.

Ms Cooke also noted Peter’s work on the board of the Agricultural Societies Council of NSW, which involves fulfilling the role of Group 8 delegate.

“Peter is a member of the Junee Rotary Club, and has been involved in the wonderful work they do in our community for over ten years now,” Ms Cooke said.

“On top of all his volunteer and community work, Peter also manages to find time to run his rural property at Eurongilly.

“As a result of Peter’s invaluable contributions to not only his local community, but to the state, he is truly a worthy recipient of the NSW Government Community Service Award,” she said.

Ms Cooke said Peter was extremely humbled by the honour when he was surprised by family and friends at an afternoon tea for the award presentation.

“As is the case with most civic-minded people, Peter never seeks praise or accolades for his contributions, but it doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t honour and thank those in the community who are committed to ensuring our towns and villages continue to be places we’re proud to belong to, and call home,” Ms Cooke said.

Photo: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke presented Peter Commens with his NSW Government Community Service Award for his work in and around Junee. Peter was joined by family and friends for the special occasion.

Ongoing investment in our rural and regional roads network is vital to the long-term prosperity of our towns and villages, with robust road infrastructure the backbone of thriving local communities, Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said.

Speaking at the official opening of upgrades to Tara-Bectric Road at Temora – which together with other improvements, including the Tara-Bectric Road Bridge, brings total investment in the road to more than $3.5 million under the previous Coalition Government’s Fixing Country Roads program – Ms Cooke said our roads infrastructure lies at the heart of the social and economic health of the regions.

“Ensuring rural and regional communities continue to get their fair share of road funding is vital for the ongoing safety and productivity of our local towns and villages,” Ms Cooke said.

“Our roads are the backbone of the community – it’s how we get to work, school, medical appointments, how we socialise and keep in touch with friends and family. Our roads are vital to our local trade and commerce, as well as tourism – and it’s for these reasons we need roadways that allow people to conduct business, stay connected, and stay safe.

“When you consider that more than one-in-five jobs in the Cootamundra electorate are directly related to agriculture – that’s over 7,000 people – we need to ensure we have the infrastructure in place that supports the ag-sector, and allows the world-class goods that we produce, to get to where it needs to go efficiently and without delay.

“It’s with this in mind that I have advocated tirelessly for our region, to ensure the Regional Roads Minister fully understands and appreciates the pivotal role our roads play in connecting our towns, and enabling economic growth.

“The previous Coalition Government certainly recognised this, and committed billions in programs like Fixing Local Roads, Fixing Country Bridges and Fixing Country Roads, which enhanced local road networks, and provided the investment needed to repair this vital infrastructure following drought, fires, and floods.

“Road projects like this here in Temora, drive big benefits for safety and the economy in the bush, and ensures the network our communities rely on every day is dependable, smooth and safe,” she said.

Photo: Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke was on hand to officially open the upgrades to Tara-Bectric Road, Temora. She was joined by members of the community, including Temora Shire Council Mayor Rick Firman.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke was on hand to help officially open the long-awaited Cootamundra Youth Hub, which she said, is a vital community asset providing a vibrant and inclusive space for young people in the area.

Ms Cooke said the Cootamundra Youth Hub aims to create a sense of belonging and support among local youth by offering a facility that fosters their interests and needs.

“The opening of the Cootamundra Youth Hub marks a significant milestone for our community, reflecting a commitment to investing in the well-being and future of our young people,” Ms Cooke said.

“I am just so proud of the collaborative effort that has brought this project to life, and I want to congratulate each and every person that was involved in making the Youth Hub a reality.

“This innovative facility will provide a safe and welcoming environment where young people can connect, learn, and thrive,” she said.

Ms Cooke said the Hub is aimed at youth aged 12-18, and will open after school on select days, and on select full days during school holidays, and on some weekends.

Located in the old Cootamundra District Hospital building, the Youth Hub features state-of-the-art facilities, including:

• Foosball table;
• Television;
• Computers with Wi-Fi for gaming or homework;
• Study area;
• Books and board games; and
• Kitchenette.

“Together, we are creating opportunities for our young people to reach their full potential and contribute positively to our community,” Ms Cooke said.

The Water Minister has been caught in an embarrassing misstep after announcing a new funding program for Boorowa, just weeks after making the very same announcement for the town, Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said.

Ms Cooke said on 5 February 2024, the Minister announced $150,000 for Hilltops Council under the Government’s ‘Advanced Operational Support Program’, to go towards upgrades to the Boorowa water treatment plant. Just six weeks later – on March 20 – the Minister announced the very same funding again.

“Either the Minister is not across the detail of her portfolio and has accidently doubled-up on her announcement, or she was trying to hood-wink the community about the level of investment the NSW Labor Government is making in Boorowa to address its ongoing water issues,” Ms Cooke said.

“Either way, it is simply not acceptable that a Minister who has been charged with the responsibility of such an important portfolio area, reheats previous funding announcements, and treats the community with this level of disrespect,” she said.

Ms Cooke said the Minister has been in the role for 12 months now, so it is fair for the community to expect more from the NSW Labor Government regarding this issue.

“The water portfolio is not an easy task – I understand that – and I appreciate that there are water issues piling up around the state; whether it be aging infrastructure, boil water alerts, or the need for long-term visionary projects, but I implore the Minister to get out of the city, and come to Boorowa to see for herself, the situation residents are facing with their drinking water,” Ms Cooke said.

“And while she’s in the electorate, perhaps she could drive over to Wyangala Dam and re-think the Government’s short-sighted decision to scrap the project to raise the dam wall, which had the dual purpose of flood mitigation, and drought preparedness.

“Or she could head west to Narrandera, and hear from locals about how they can’t rely on the water coming out of their household taps to be drinkable, or even suitable for basic needs like clothes washing,” she said.

Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke is urging residents to take extra care on the road as motorists across New South Wales plan their upcoming Easter holiday weekend.

“There will be increased traffic on the roads over the long weekend, so if you’re planning on a long journey, or simply driving around town, your safety and the safety of your passengers and other drivers, should be a top priority,” Ms Cooke said.

“So, whether you’re heading off on holiday, hitting the road to enjoy the various activities and events in the region, or catching-up with family and friends this Easter, if you’re out on the roads, please take care.

“Most crashes occur on country roads; we must remember that road safety is a shared responsibility, so when you’re on the road, think about how your actions can affect the safety of your family, friends, and those around you,” she said.

Ms Cooke said double-demerits will apply from Thursday, March 28 to Monday, April 1 inclusive, with NSW Police out in force taking a proactive approach to road safety this Easter.

“It’s always a good idea to plan ahead – including regular breaks – allowing plenty of time to get to where you’re going,” Ms Cooke said.

“Always observe the speed limit and drive according to road conditions; obviously don’t text or use your mobile phone unless it’s hands-free; ensure you and your passengers all wear seatbelts; and it should go without saying, but definitely don’t drive if you’re under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

“So far in 2024, the NSW road toll is higher this year compared to the same time in 2023, so please, let’s all play our part in making sure we get to our destinations safely, and ensure the Easter long weekend is a memorable one for all the right reasons,” she said.